Greenland Dog
Other names: The Greenland, Kalaallit qimmiat (Qimmeq), Grønlandshund, Grünlandshund, Esquimaux Dog
The Greenland Dog is a large sled dog. They were brought from Siberia to North America over 1,000 years ago and were also used for hunting seals and polar bears. It’s closely related to the Siberian Husky and shares many of the same characteristics. The Greenland Dog is strong, loyal, and very confident. Nothing fazes this assured working dog. They require an equally confident and well-experienced handler.
Key facts about the Greenland Dog
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Origins and history
The Greenland Dog has been hunting and living alongside humans for the last 2,000 years. They were bred from the working dogs and wolves of Northern Siberia. They were then taken to North America by the Thule tribes as they migrated across the globe. As well as hunting and tracking large land predators, they also pulled sleds over huge distances in sub-zero temperatures. Many still compete in sled trial competitions in Alaska and Siberia. They were first brought to UK shores in the 1850s. Owners began showing the Greenland in dog shows around 1870, and the first UK kennel club was established ten years later in 1880.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types
Section
Section 1 : Nordic Sledge Dogs
Physical characteristics of the Greenland Dog
Adult size
Female : Between 22 and 24 in
Male : Between 24 and 26 in
Weight
Female : Between 62 and 71 lb
Male : Between 62 and 71 lb
Coat colour
Any combination of black, white, brown, red and grey.
Type of coat
Thick, dense fur. Soft undercoat. Harsh topcoat.
Eye colour
Brown. Blue. Hazel. Amber.
Description
A strong, compact dog with a thick neck and large head. Long, fluffy tail. A well-balanced and confident posture. Dense fur, especially around the chest and belly.
Good to know
Greenland Dogs can be very difficult to handle. Early training and socialisation is vital.
They tend to bark a lot. They also enjoy howling, and often late at night. They can jump really high. These dogs can easily leap over a four foot high fence.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Greenland Dog
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Is the Greenland Dog right for you?
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Compatibility
Price
The initial price of a Greenland Dog puppy will be between £700 to £900. With regards to the monthly budget required to meet the needs of a dog this size, you have to estimate an average of £55 per month.
Grooming
Requires brushing two to three times a week.
Nutrition of the Greenland Dog
4 cups of high-quality dog food split over two or three meals.
Health of the Greenland Dog
Life expectancy
A very healthy breed with an average life expectancy of 10 to 14 years.
Strong / robust
One of the toughest breeds of all. A strong, well-built dog with lots of stamina.
Withstand heat
Greenland Dogs don’t support the heat very well. They were bred to live in sub-zero conditions. Hot temperatures will make them very uncomfortable.
Withstand cold
No problems withstanding the cold. The Greenland Dog has a thick, double coat that keeps them warm. It’s also windproof and waterproof.
Tendency to put on weight
No issues with unwanted weight gain or obesity.
Common illnesses
- Luxating patella
- Hip dysplasia